Strawberries.--The soil most suitable for the growth of this fruit is
a rich, deep, adhesive loam. July or early in August is the best time
to make new beds, but if the ground be not then available runners from
the old plants may be planted in peat on a north border and lifted
with good balls of earth to their permanent bed in the spring. Set
them firmly in rows 2 ft. apart and 18 in. from plant to plant. Spread
out the roots and avoid deep planting. Remove from the old plants
all runners not required for new beds before they take root, as they
exhaust the crown. In dry seasons liquid manure is highly beneficial.
Some growers give supports to the fruit by means of forked-shaped
pegs, while others lay straw down to keep the fruit free from grit.
Keep a sharp look-out for snails and slugs. King of the Earlies,
Auguste Nicaise, Royal Sovereign, Vicomtesse Héricart de Thury, Gunton
Park, President, Sir Joseph Paxton, Lord Suffield, Noble, and Samuel
Bradley are excellent sorts. For Ornamental Strawberries, _see_
"Fragaria Indica."